Donation for 'dark store' reform

The council will vote on a $10,000 donation to the League of Wisconsin Municipalities for commercial property tax reform.

The issue, better known by its “dark store” designation, relates to an ongoing string of legal battles around Wisconsin between large big-box stores and municipalities. At the heart of the issue is if the stores should be valued at the price of similarly-sized empty stores, rather than being assessed with consideration of their business use.

Rulings in favor of the stores have forced municipalities to return tax revenue across the state and could raise taxes on other residents.

Pickart Estates Development

The council will decide whether or not to approve elements of Pickart Estates, a 24-plot development planned for West Ninth Avenue.

Ordinances related to the development up for approval public construction authorization, a preliminary plan approval and final plat approval.